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US area code · Massachusetts

617 area code

Where the 617 area code is, its overlay and how to dial a +1 617 number from anywhere.

CoversBoston, MassachusettsTime zoneEastern (ET)TypeOverlay
Quick answer

The 617 area code is in Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Eastern (ET)). To call from abroad: +1 617 555-0123. It is an overlay, so all 10 digits are dialled.

StateMassachusetts
Main areaBoston
Time zoneEastern (ET)
TypeOverlay
10-digit dialingRequired
In service since01-Jan-1947

The 617 area code is a geographic North American Numbering Plan (NANP) code covering Boston, Massachusetts. It has been in service since 01-Jan-1947 and sits in the Eastern (ET) time zone.

Overlay 617 shares its region

Several area codes cover the same geographic area, so two neighbours can have different codes. Because of the overlay, you must dial all 10 digits (area code + number) even for local calls.

617857

How to dial a 617 number

From abroad+1 617 555-0123
Within the US / Canada1 617 555-0123
Locally (same area)617 555-0123

Cities in the 617 area code

A 617 number is usually in one of these places in Massachusetts — 3 counties.

Belmont MiddlesexBrookline NorfolkCambridge MiddlesexChelsea SuffolkEverett MiddlesexMilton NorfolkNewton MiddlesexQuincy NorfolkSomerville MiddlesexSouth BostonWatertown Middlesex

Other Massachusetts area codes

339351413508774781857978

Frequently asked questions

Where is the 617 area code?

The 617 area code is in Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Eastern (ET)).

Is 617 an overlay area code?

Yes. 617 overlays the same region as 857, so callers dial all 10 digits.

Do I have to dial 10 digits for 617?

Yes — dial the area code plus the seven-digit number.

How do I call a 617 number from another country?

Dial your exit code (or +), then 1, then 617, then the number: +1 617 555-0123.

Source: NANPA numbering plan. An area code covers a region, not a precise address — a 617 number does not pinpoint a street or ZIP code.

Number holders in area code 617

Each prefix (the three digits after the area code) is assigned by NANPA to one telephone company. 800 prefixes are in use in 617, shared by 26 companies. The largest holders:

CompanyPrefixesShare
Verizon New England Inc.33442%
Mcimetro Access Transmission Services LLC719%
New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC689%
Paetec Itel, LLC446%
Tc Systems, Inc.415%
Level 3 Communications, LLC395%

Source: NANPA central office code assignments. A number keeps its original prefix when it is ported to another carrier.

Complaints about 617 numbers

Reports to the FTC, last 30 days
358
Recorded messages or robocalls
58%
Rank among area codes
#264 of 670
Most reported subjects
Other (114)
Reducing your debt (credit cards, mortgage, student loans) (91)
Dropped call or no message (64)

Period Aug 26 – Sep 24, 2026. These are the numbers shown on the caller ID of the reported calls; many are spoofed and do not belong to the real caller.

Source: US Federal Trade Commission, Do Not Call reported calls data (daily files).

All US area codes United States +1 Map of area code 617 — cities & rate centres

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